N.J. campus sexual assault bills mostly another data dump: Editorial

During the next three weeks, the fall semester will have begun at colleges and universities nationwide. In about four weeks, if recent history is any guide, hundreds of young women and men will become victims of sexual assault on campus.

"Colleges and universities must step up to help prevent these actions," said Barnes, D-Middlesex, "and to protect those individuals who are victims of sexual assault."

Similar reporting standards are embodied in proposed federal legislation. But generating more reports is unlikely to prevent crimes or protect victims. While too many schools have covered up or mishandled incidents, improved reporting is best handled at the federal level.

In addition, Barnes' bills are remarkably short on concrete suggestions to keep students safe.

Since the age of majority was lowered to 18, it has been difficult for colleges to keep restrictions that protected earlier generations — strict curfews, single-gender dorms and rigid sign-in systems that kept dormitory staff in touch with students exploring new-found freedoms.

Nevertheless, there's nothing to prevent colleges from voluntarily setting up dorms where students might choose to live in an environment with more structure and protection. New technology like "Apps Against Abuse" offers ways for students to reach peers or get help. A new U.S. Department of Education website, notalone.gov, informs students of their rights and shows them how to file sexual assault complaints.

The one part of Barnes' legislation that could aid students in real-time situations compels colleges to provide a "confidential advocate" for alleged victims, which might help them to navigate the reporting system. Otherwise, it's just another set of statistics to compare.